Securely uploading and downloading business files is an essential component of many online applications and services, such as content management systems and insurance websites, healthcare portals and messaging applications. Unrestricted uploads of files are the most common attack vector for malicious actors who can easily introduce malware and steal private data.
A reputable system for uploading files will check uploaded files against a list that allows types of file and screen them for viruses before they are saved. This ensures that the private information of customers is not exposed and is in compliance with standards such as HIPAA (for health-related data) and GDPR (for EU citizens).
The ability of confirming the file type is vital as hackers often “mask” malicious files by changing their names to allowable extensions, such as.jpg helpful hints or.gif. This means that your solution may not be able detect the file’s actual type and will allow it to go without being noticed. To prevent this from happening, you require an uploader that verifies the file extension as well.
A strong encryption of all data in flight and at rest is another method to defend yourself against a variety of attacks. This transforms files and messages into unreadable codes that can’t be read by hackers, even in the event that they gain access to the data.
You can also create an uploading system that rejects any files that don’t meet your namestamps. This will help keep your team organised and also prevent confidential information from being revealed in the names of files.